Welcome to the Hill, home to Twig the chipmunk and his furry friends. Trouble always seems to find Twig and today is no different than any other day. Failing in metal class, Twig is ordered to leave the classroom. Embarrassed and tired of being laughed at, the little chipmunk ponders his future. Unlike his BFF Lily, it's unlikely that Twig will be named a Master Metal Crafter. Twig isn't good at anything and he isn't sure what he wants to do. His favorite past time is reading and he spends most of his time with his beloved books, dreaming of adventure beyond the Hill. But, after stumbling across a magnificent egg in the forest, Twig's luck is about to change. Suddenly on top, Twig must decide who to trust and finds a friend in an unlikely creature. 

A story of magic and friendship, reader's of all ages will fall in love with all the creatures that inhabit the Hill. Middle school children will easily identify with Twig's classroom antics and his daily struggles with teachers and classmates. An imaginative tale filled with wonderful characters and beautiful illustrations. The story was open ended, leaving me to believe that Cole intends to visit this magical forest dwelling once again. If so, I'd gladly welcome Twig back. 

Henry Cole has illustrated many children's books, including his very own Jack's Garden, A Nest for Celeste, and On Meadowview Street. Visit Henry online at www.henrycole.net. 

* * I received an ARC courtesy of a Goodreads giveaway sponsored by Henry Cole. 

Received this gorgeous ARC on my birthday. The illustrations are absolutely stunning. One I will treasure. 

Many, many thanks to Henry Cole!

I've always loved journaling. My high school English teacher had her students keep a journal, teaching us the importance of expressing our emotions and feelings on paper. It was a great way to release those things we keep locked deep inside. It helped me express myself and other times, after seeing my thoughts on paper, inspired me. That is exactly what Karen Salmansohn had in mind when she created this little happy journal. First, the journal itself is lovely. It makes me happy just looking at it. The bright and happy colors are an instant boost. Second, the daily "happiness" prompts allow me to focus on positive thoughts. Salmansohn filled the pages with prompts "meant to inspire you to reflect and focus on where the most joy, appreciation, and love can be found in your day (and your life)."

I choose to record my thoughts in the evening. This journal helps me focus on the positive aspects of my day and it certainly inspires me to look for the bright spots in my life and in others. I love this journal. It's helping see myself from a different perspective and in a better light. 

This Instant Happy Journal would make a great gift. It's the perfect size to fit in a larger purse or backpack, easy to carry around. Happen to write something truly inspirational and feel you must share, Karen would love to hear it! You can write to Karen at notsalmon.com, and tweet or Instagram an excerpt to @notsalmon (#instanthappy). 

**I was generously provided a copy from Blogging for Books in exchange for my honest and fair opinion. Thoughts are my own. 

What a great book for children! A fun, informative book that allows children to learn and travel through reading adventures. Young readers will also learn Italian words with proper pronunciation. Easy to read and comprehensive. Nicely illustrated. This book series, that introduces children to many different cultures, would be a wonderful way for parents to explore the world with their young ones. Makes learning about geography fun.

There are many more books in the If You Were Me and Lived In...series. Other locations include Australia, Hungary, Germany, Peru, etc. Again, excellent way to learn about other cultures, geographical locations, and a few foreign words.

**I was gifted a copy by the publicist, Brittney Bass. Many thanks. Opinions are my own.